Owner's Manual

CTM100 CONSTRUCTION AND CARE
CTM100 Introduction:
The CTM100 is a studio quality, multi-purpose Large Diaphragm
Tube Condenser microphone. It features a 1” Gold sputtered, 5-
micron element, 12AX7 vacuum tube preamp all suspended in a
handsome, rock solid, machined casing. This versatile microphone
was developed with the project/pro studio in mind; so it is equally
adept at reproducing stunning vocal performances as it is at cap-
turing the subtlest nuances of a fine acoustic guitar. And with a
maximum SPL of 125dB, the CTM100 is an excellent instrument
and percussion microphone. You no longer have to own a million
dollar studio to get a polished studio recording. The Carvin
CTM100 is your affordable ticket to awesome studio sound!
Construction and Shockmount:
The internally braced CTM100 capsule is precision mounted behind
a heavy metal mesh screen with large openings that offers com-
plete protection while maintaining total “acoustic transparency”.
Nestled below, is the low noise, class A circuitry surrounded by the
solid, machined outer shell. When used with the included
Shockmount, low frequency vibration is virtually eliminated!
Power Supply:
The CTM100 comes standard with a heavy duty phantom power
supply, ensuring you will never experience noise or distortion during
loud dynamic passages due to insufficient current. The power supply
connects to the CTM100 conveniently via the XLR mic cable.
*Note: We recommend using only the included power supply.
Carvin is not responsible for damage to your CTM100 caused by
use from a different power supply.
Travel Case:
The CTM100’s shockmount, power supply and cables all fit snugly
and safely in a high-grade, molded ABS travel case so you know
your microphone and accessories are well protected between ses-
sions or during travel. Carvin recommends returning your CTM100
to this case after each use.
Maintenence and Care:
Condenser microphones are not to be banged, dropped, tapped,
blown into, shaken or stirred. The gold sputtered element is very
thin and fragile and can easily be stretched or knocked out of align-
ment. This is true of all large diaphragm condensers. Be very care-
ful with your CTM100! If you drop it, the resulting damage will not
be covered under your warranty.
Additionally, these mics don’t like moisture. It is always advis-
able to use a pop screen (Carvin part #WS87) when miking vocals.
A pop screen will avoid overly accentuated “P”, “B”, and “S”
sounds and will also keep unwanted moisture off of the element.
Over time, moisture on the element can attract airborne dust and
dirt particles and gradually degrade the performance of your mic.
Carvin advises that the microphone be kept in its case at all times
when not in use. Take a few minutes after every session and put
your mic away properly to help ensure years of top notch perfor-
mance. Additionally, always make sure the silicone “moisture
absorber” (little white packet with crystals) is packed in the case
with your microphone. This will help to eliminate any moisture or
humidity in the case during storage. You can re-activate a satu-
rated “moisture absorber” by baking it in an oven at 250 degrees
for about 30 minutes. The outer shell of your mic can be cleaned
with a soft damp cloth. Do not use harsh detergents, solvents, or
abrasive materials.
a) Shockmount
The shockmount will fit any standard mic stand. It is designed to hold the
CTM100 mic while reducing low frequency vibration and handling noise.
b) 7-pin XLR cable
Connect the supplied 7-pin XLR cable to the power supply input and mic.
c) 3-pin XLR cable
Connect a balanced 3-pin XLR cable to the power supply XLR output.
120/240V AC
b)
7-pin XLR cable
c)
3-pin XLR cable con-
nects to mixer or
recording device.
a) Shockmount